Under the water, the outdoor pool feels like any other—cool and refreshing, refracted with the blurry sunlight overhead. It’s upon surfacing that guests of Pelican Eyes Resort & Spa understand the majesty of their particular surroundings: the edge of the infinity pool disappears, replaced by a hilltop panorama where posh Nicaraguan resorts roost atop peninsular bluffs jutting out into the glittering waters of San Juan del Sur Bay. In Ocean View or Garden View habitaciones rooms, sojourners are welcomed by whitewashed bedding, vaulted cane ceilings, and open-air terraces overlooking the ocean or the resort’s sumptuous gardens.

After an extended dip in the infinity pool (one of three swimming pools on the property), vacationers need only about-face to find themselves wrapped in the inviting arms of La Cascada Bar & Restaurant, a three-meal eatery and cantina that transmutes locally sourced ingredients into gourmet Nicaraguan dishes. Across the way, Casa Tranquila doles out extended relaxation in the form of signature massages, body cocoons, and exfoliations amid lush environs.

Post-pampering, guests are encouraged to embark on Pelican Eyes Resort & Spa's signature sailing excursion for either a half- or full-day voyage. Once aboard the 41-foot sloop, excursionists will chart the largely undiscovered southern Pacific coastline as quick pelicans nosedive nearby and disoriented puffins stop and ask for directions. On the full day at sea, travelers will beachcomb in hidden coastal bays, take in a gourmet lunch on a white-sand beach, and nosh beverages, desserts, and snacks along the way. The licensed captain and experienced crew will also navigate the ship toward views of an inimitable ocean sunset or moonrise.

Although Pelican Eyes Resort & Spa sometimes offers discounted specials online, this Groupon is valid for Ocean View rooms as well and is still the best deal available.

Sea turtles conceal their precious eggs in the sand at Playa la Flor, just one scene of many that may appear in the resort’s numerous day trips. Elsewhere, voyagers can feast their eyes on colorful wares in local markets, and a trip to the historic city of Granada showcases colonial architecture, tropically hued homes, and compelling restaurants and cafés.

Fits of adrenaline fuel the resort's highly touted local adventures. A canopy tour of nearby San Juan del Sur Mountain culminates in a harnessed-in jaunt over a forest and a 70-meter wide canyon. Alternatively, travelers can skim the wake in surfing lesson or trot through the scenery with horseback rides.

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